How can we ensure everyone hears God's Word, as in Joshua 8:35? Setting the Scene: Joshua 8:35 “There was not a word of all that Moses had commanded that Joshua did not read to the whole assembly of Israel, including the women and children, and the foreigners who lived among them.” Key Observation: Everyone Present, Everyone Hearing • Joshua read “not a word” less than the full law. • The audience was comprehensive—men, women, children, and resident foreigners. • The moment modeled God’s desire that no one be left out of His revelation. Principle 1: Proclaim the Whole Counsel of God • Acts 20:27—Paul “did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.” • Restricting passages limits spiritual nutrition; teaching everything God has spoken builds mature believers. Principle 2: Use Clear and Understandable Formats • Nehemiah 8:8—“They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning.” • Explain, translate if needed, and apply so hearers grasp and obey. Principle 3: Include Every Demographic • Deuteronomy 31:12—assemble men, women, children, and foreigners “so they may hear and learn to fear the LORD.” • Provide age-appropriate settings, accessible language, and practical on-ramps for newcomers. Principle 4: Establish Rhythms of Collective Hearing • Colossians 3:16—“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” • Regular gatherings (Sunday worship, midweek studies, family devotions) keep the Word central. Principle 5: Empower Households as Mini-Sanctuaries • Deuteronomy 6:6-7—teach God’s commands “diligently to your children.” • Equip parents with reading plans, discussion guides, and memorization tools. Principle 6: Make Disciples Who Can Teach Others • 2 Timothy 2:2—entrust Scripture “to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” • Train teachers, mentor emerging leaders, and multiply small groups. Principle 7: Utilize Every Available Medium • Romans 10:17—“Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” • Print, audio, video, social media, sign language, and Braille widen access. Principle 8: Bathe the Work in Dependence on the Spirit • John 16:13—“When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth.” • Programs succeed only as the Spirit opens ears and hearts. Practical Action Steps • Schedule systematic public reading of entire books of Scripture. • Offer translation or interpretation where language barriers exist. • Launch literacy classes linked to Bible reading. • Provide children’s versions and illustrated story Bibles. • Record sermons/podcasts and distribute freely. • Support missions focused on Bible translation and distribution. • Encourage every believer to read aloud at home, following annual plans. • Host community Bible nights in neutral venues for unbelievers and internationals. • Review curricula yearly to ensure the whole biblical storyline is covered. Encouragement: God’s Word Accomplishes Its Purpose Isaiah 55:11—“So is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty.” As we faithfully broadcast Scripture to every ear, God guarantees fruitful results in His time. |
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